Eric Edelstein is gaining significant attention for his portrayal of Hank Williams in the Netflix series The Boroughs. His performance has led to some viewers confusing him with actor David Harbour from Stranger Things, due to their similar on-screen presence.
About The Boroughs and Eric Edelstein’s Role
Set against the backdrop of a retirement community in the New Mexico desert, The Boroughs showcases Edelstein as Hank, the head of security. The show premiered on May 18 at The Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood.
Co-creators Jeffrey Addiss and Will Matthews aimed to craft Hank as a relatable, real-world authority figure. Addiss stated, “Hank is not a supernatural villain, but he is the kind of authority figure who makes people feel small and afraid.”
Edelstein’s Career and Popularity
At 49 years old, Edelstein has built a diverse acting career. He is known for his roles in animated series like We Bare Bears and films such as Jurassic World and Green Room. His role as the excitable Grizzly Bear in We Bare Bears is especially popular among fans for showcasing his comedic timing.
Fan Comparisons to David Harbour
Fans have been vocal about the resemblance between Edelstein’s Hank and Harbour’s character, Sheriff Jim Hopper. Discussions on platforms like Reddit highlight this comparison, with comments such as:
- “Am I the only one that thinks Hank from The Boroughs looks like a knockoff Jim Hopper?”
- “Eric Edelstein gives off David Harbour-levels of guardian vibe, even though they are not the same actor.”
Edelstein’s portrayal features a physically imposing figure with a gruff, calm tone. Writer Liam Thornton observed, “The physical build plus the gruff demeanor is what make people think they’re watching the same guy.”
Social Media Buzz
Edelstein acknowledges the mix-up playfully on social media. He shared a post on Instagram on May 22, 2026, saying, “Happy Boroughs Day, friends. Give it a watch on @netflix for Ole Hank and the gang.”
This lighthearted engagement further adds to the buzz surrounding his character, making Hank both infuriating and memorable to audiences. In the words of journalist Katie Lin, “Hank is the type of authority figure audiences will recognize from their own lives.”
